Basil Essential Oil

Basil essential oil is often used today in many upscale fragrances and soaps as well as in the food industry as a flavoring agent in savory dishes.

Historically the herb has been used medicinally for respiratory problems, insect bites, fevers, blood circulation, skin conditions and more.

Common Name: French Basil, Common Basil or Sweet Basil

Botanical Name: Ocimum Basilicum

INCI Name: Ocimum basilicum (basil) oil

Common Extraction Method: Steam distillation of the leaves and flowering tops.

Plant Origin: Widely cultivated throughout Europe, Asia, the Mediterranean, North and South America.

Physical Description: Clear to pale yellow color with a thin consistancy.

Aromatic Description: Good quality Basil essential oil has as a light, fresh, sweet, spicy, herbal scent with a mild licorice-like note.

Properties & Benefits: Has anti-depressant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-spasmodic properties. Is reported to help with fatigue, depression, alertness, wasp and mosquito bites, concentration, headaches, head congestion and migraines. Is also used to help repel insects.

Blends well with: Bergamot, black pepper, cedarwood, chamomile roman, citronella, clary sage, rosemary, eucalyptus, geranium, ginger, grapefruit, lavender, lemon, lime, marjoram, orange, oregano, palmarosa, pine, sage, tea tree and thyme.

Cautions: Possible sensitization to some individuals. Do not use during pregnancy.

This information is provided for reference use only and is not meant to substitute the advice of a licensed health care professional.